5 Ways to Make Sneakers & Athletic Shoes Look Stylish

How to turn foot problems into fashion opportunities!

I used to be such a shoe snob.

Footwear has always been something I’ve enjoyed, and for most of my life, I invested in a lot of awesome shoes! I loved how the right pair added interest to my look and helped me create a personal style.

In fact, I judged women who wore sneakers or athletic shoes with their stylish outfits.

I’d wonder, “With all the amazing shoes in the world, why would women choose sneakers?”

But then, I developed severe foot issues that turned out to be plantar fasciitis. I could no longer wear any of my typical shoes and stepped away from all of my heels or wedges. For the first time since starting to teach Dressing Your Truth, I had to learn how to make lace-up sneakers and athletic shoes fashionable. 

My experience completely changed my mind about women and shoes.

I learned first and foremost that it doesn’t matter what anyone else may think—what matters is how you feel!

Wearing supportive, comfortable shoes was necessary for healing my plantar fasciitis, and I learned how to turn my foot problems into fashion opportunities.

Here are 5 ways to make sneakers & athletic shoes stylish true to your type:

#1: DON’T wear your beat-up shoes that are already worn out or dirty. (03:17)

This goes for hiking shoes, boots, and exercise shoes as well. Use them for what they’re meant for: the gym, going for a hike outdoors, etc. If you wear old, dingy shoes with a fashionable outfit, you’ll just be drawing attention to your feet, and it won’t look good!

#2: Balance your clothes with your shoes. (04:16)

Meaning, if you’re wearing chunky sneakers, make your pants, skirts, and jackets more sleek and clean. You’ll feel more put-together. If you pair chunky sneakers with long, baggy pants, a big oversized jacket, etc, you’ll feel frumpy and won’t look as streamlined. 

#3: Make the shoes the feature of your outfit. (05:17)

They could be the highlight that creates and supports a personal look. (I show you 3 different looks for this tip.)

#4: Wear shoes the same color as your pants or bottoms. (07:15)

This way, the shoes blend in and get overlooked, so the attention is drawn upward to your best feature—your beautiful face.

#5: Add a fashionable handbag. (09:08)

Pick a fashionable handbag in a stand-out color. It ups your entire outfit and gives the instant impression of having a personal style.

Purses for each Type:

Which of these 5 looks will you be adding to your style? 

Which of them have you already been doing? We’d love to see your photos! If you’re in my Lifestyle Facebook Group, add your #OOTD (Outfit of the Day) and inspire the thousands of other women who love to see thrive! If you’re not yet a member of Lifestyle, join today!

Join Lifestyle today!

Related Articles